Which governmental body primarily oversees the approval of veterinary drugs?

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is the primary governmental body responsible for overseeing the approval of veterinary drugs. The FDA evaluates the safety, efficacy, and manufacturing quality of all drugs intended for animals, which includes both companion animals such as pets and livestock.

The approval process ensures that any drug used in veterinary medicine meets rigorous standards, protecting both animal health and public safety, especially when it comes to food products derived from treated animals. The FDA conducts thorough reviews of clinical trials and other data provided by pharmaceutical companies before granting approval for veterinary drugs.

Other organizations play important roles in different areas of animal health and safety. For example, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates pesticides and certain environmental aspects of animal agriculture, while the Department of Agriculture (USDA) focuses on agricultural practices and food safety but does not approve drugs directly. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) primarily conducts medical research and funding but does not oversee the approval process for veterinary drugs. Thus, the FDA's comprehensive responsibility in this regard makes it the correct choice for overseeing veterinary drug approvals.